The Bethlehem Boys & Girls Club held its annual ‘steak and burger’ dinner Oct. 20 in the new Wind Creek Hotel’s ballroom, featuring former Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook as the guest speaker and honoring Mayor J. William Reynolds for his contributions to young people. In the past there has been quite a bit of trading between club members who are served steak and adults who receive hamburgers, but the new buffet format put a hold on that activity, as attendees were able to get their preferred protein from the start. Attendance doubled from 2022 as about 350 club members, chaperones and supporters were present.

“I am so grateful all of you are here,” said Club CEO Winston Alozie.

The Bethlehem Boys & Girls Club is celebrating its 93rd year and according to emcee Hanna O’Reilly of WFMZ, the club serves 624 kids annually, averaging daily attendance of 60 kids and teens.

Club members Kendall Medina sang the National Anthem and Bryan Garza gave the dinner blessing.

The main attraction, Brian Westbrook, met with VIP supporters for photos before dinner, and spoke about his experiences after dinner as a young athlete and Boys & Girls Club member when he was younger. Westbrook, who remains the NCAA record holder for all purpose yards and who starred at running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, said about his club experience, “it’s about the camaraderie and provided a great opportunity for all the kids.” Westbrook in his football experiences at each level said that he worked harder than everyone else and played with a chip on his shoulder. He was interviewed by Kevin Crockett of 100.7 WLEV radio.

Reynolds was honored by Alozie. “He is a shining light for future advocates,” said Alozie, who noted Reynolds’ commitment to youth in the community.

The ‘steak & burger’ dinner is a major fundraiser for the club each year.